You might assume that the 2014 Winter Olympics have been a trying experience for the Red Wings. Detroit has dealt with more than its fair share of injuries so far this season and the Winter Games have arguably further complicated that.

Nevertheless, you can list Red Wings GM Ken Holland as one of the people supporting the NHL’s continued participation in the Olympics.

“My take is, it’s a great stage to showcase our players,” he told the Detroit Free Press. “The USA-Russia game drew tremendous numbers back in the U.S. It’s best on best.”

Holland defended Datsyuk and pointed to former captain Steve Yzerman, who was sidelined in 2002 after playing through a knee injury in the Olympics, but returned to lead Detroit to a Stanley Cup championship that year.

“I think (Datsyuk’s) earned the right to make the decision based on how his body feels,” Holland said.

Detroit has a one-point edge in the Wild Card race with its streak of 22 consecutive postseason appearances on the line.

While the Olympic tournament is great it cannot compare to the SC playoffs This year there are going to be 8 terrific opening round series and it will just get better glad the Olympics showcase the game to the casual fan but NHL is the real deal Best players in world night in night out Go USA

I disagree partly, winning the Stanley Cup is obviously a huge accomplishment, but you are winning it for a random city that you were picked to be there (in most cases). In the Olympics you are playing for your country. I don’t care who you are, it has to be a greater feeling winning for your country than it is for a random city in North America, especially if you are European.